University of the Philippines

University of the Philippines
Name	University of the Philippines
Native name	Unibersidad ng Pilipinas
Motto	Honor and Excellence
Established	June 18, 1908
Type	Public, National University
President	Angelo A. Jimenez
Location	Quezon City, Philippines (System)
Campuses	Multiple (See Campuses)
Colors	UP Maroon and UP Forest Green
Affiliations	ASEAN University Network, Association of Pacific Rim Universities

University of the Philippines. It is a coeducational state university system in the Philippines, founded on June 18, 1908, by an act of the Philippine Commission. Designated as the country's National University in 2008, it is known for its high academic standards and significant role in the nation's history. Its motto, "Honor and Excellence," reflects its commitment to leadership in education, research, and public service.

History

The institution was established through Act No. 1870 of the Philippine Commission during the American colonial period, with its first campus opening in Manila on June 18, 1908. Its early years were shaped by figures like William H. Taft and first president Murray Bartlett. The university expanded significantly after World War II, with the flagship UP Diliman campus formally established in 1949. Key moments in its history include its central role during the First Quarter Storm and the Martial Law era, producing many activist leaders. It was formally declared the National University by Republic Act 9500 in 2008, cementing its unique constitutional role.

Campuses

The system comprises eight constituent universities across 17 campuses throughout the Philippines. The flagship is UP Diliman in Quezon City, which houses the system administration. Other major autonomous universities include UP Manila, the health sciences center; UP Los Baños, a leader in agriculture and forestry; and UP Visayas, with campuses in Iloilo and Miagao. Other constituents are UP Open University, UP Mindanao, UP Baguio, and UP Cebu. Each campus has distinct academic specializations and cultural identities, from UP Diliman's Oblation to UP Los Baños's vast experimental forests.

Academics

It is widely recognized as the top academic institution in the country, consistently leading in domestic rankings. It offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through its colleges and professional schools, such as the UP College of Law and the UP College of Medicine. The institution is a research-intensive hub, housing national research centers like the National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology and the Marine Science Institute. It holds membership in prestigious international consortia including the Association of Pacific Rim Universities and the ASEAN University Network.

Administration and organization

The university is governed by the UP Board of Regents, chaired by the Commission on Higher Education chairperson and including representatives from the Congress of the Philippines, the alumni, and the student body. The chief executive is the UP President, currently Angelo A. Jimenez. Each constituent university is headed by a Chancellor, while individual colleges and units are led by Deans and Directors. The UP System is funded primarily by the national government through the General Appropriations Act.

Notable alumni and faculty

Its community includes numerous national leaders and luminaries. Alumni in politics and government include former Presidents Jose P. Laurel, Elpidio Quirino, and Ferdinand Marcos, as well as Chief Justices and Senators. Cultural icons include National Artists like Nick Joaquin, Bienvenido Lumbera, and Levi Celerio, and scientists like Fe del Mundo. Distinguished faculty have included historians Teodoro Agoncillo and Renato Constantino, and economist Gerardo Sicat.

Culture and traditions

Campus life is marked by a strong tradition of academic freedom, activism, and critical thinking. Iconic symbols include the Oblation statue and the official colors, UP Maroon and UP Forest Green. Major annual events include the UP Lantern Parade and the UP Fair. Student organizations, such as the UP Varsity Pep Squad and the UP Repertory Company, are highly active. The culture is also defined by its vibrant student publications like the Philippine Collegian and a rich musical heritage including the UP Madrigal Singers and the UP Concert Chorus.

Category:University of the Philippines Category:Public universities in the Philippines Category:1908 establishments in the Philippines